unwilling
/' n'wili /
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Not wanting to do something; not done, given, or said willingly: Describes a state of reluctance, resistance, or lack of desire to act or agree.
- Not disposed or inclined toward something: Indicates a lack of readiness or favorable disposition towards a particular action, situation, or idea.
Examples of Usage
- Adjective:
- She was unwilling to compromise on the terms of the contract.
- He gave an unwilling apology, which felt insincere.
- The unwilling participant was dragged into the game by his friends.
Advanced Usage
- "to be unwilling to do something": The most common structure, expressing a strong reluctance to perform a specific action.
- The witness was unwilling to testify in court.
- "unwilling participant/volunteer/helper": Describes someone who is involved in an activity against their will or desire.
- He was an unwilling recruit, forced into military service.
Variants and Related Words
- Unwillingly (adverb): In a reluctant manner.
- She unwillingly agreed to help.
- Unwillingness (noun): The state or quality of being unwilling; reluctance.
- His unwillingness to cooperate delayed the project.
Synonyms
- Reluctant: Hesitant or unwilling, often due to doubt or fear.
- Averse: Having a strong dislike or opposition to something.
- Disinclined: Not inclined or willing to do something.
Antonyms
- Willing: Ready, eager, or prepared to do something.
- Eager: Very keen or enthusiastic to do something.
- Inclined: Having a tendency or preference towards something.
Related Phrases and Idioms
- Against one's will: Not by one's own choice or desire; unwillingly.
- He attended the meeting against his will.
- To drag one's feet/heels: To act slowly or reluctantly because you do not want to do something.
- The committee is dragging its feet on making a decision.
Adjective
- in spite of contrary volition
- not disposed or inclined toward
- an unwilling assistant
- unwilling to face facts